As I walked into the El Rey Theatre just minutes before the sky blessed the streets of L.A. with some much-needed rain, California native Austin Brown and his band, BLVK CVSTLE, were already on stage. They praised the packed audience for being attentive, respectful, and, most importantly, ready to enjoy the energy of New Orleans’s wild child, headliner Tank and the Bangas.
“California, My heart ached, and I longed for you,” sang Brown. “It’s your beauty, your majesty, your sunsets of sky blue, from the coast down to the shores now, you always kept me warm.”
That night was truly remarkable; the room felt warm, and everyone was dancing together. Brown noticed the great vibe and dedicated his song “California” to all of us. The past few weeks have been challenging in L.A., but this night was exactly how I hoped the new year would begin: filled with joyous laughter, friends, and good vibes.
Drinks flowed as I watched the crowd dance and embrace one another. I was reminded that Los Angeles was our home, and together, we could overcome any obstacles that came our way as a community. Let’s face it: we keep each other safe, and we are all we need.
“Actors act. Poets write poems. It’s in the ink for me.”
When Tank and the Bangas took the stage, the room erupted in applause and excited screams. The packed VIP seating upstairs and those standing near the bar in the back were all buzzing with energy. Hands shot up into the air as people jumped up and down, eagerly anticipating a fantastic show. In the front row, a woman nearly lost her Mickey Mouse ears in her excitement.
Lead vocalist Tarriona “Tank” Ball captivated the audience with a performance that featured “Miss One” from The Wiz, some “Sunshine” by Roy Ayers, and the enchanting presence reminiscent of a 90s Shani Barbie doll. She is truly exceptional, and if you’re not paying attention to this Grammy-nominated ensemble that is poised to win a Grammy Award soon, believe me, you’re missing out.
As we all admired her radiance throughout the night, she and her band seamlessly blended elements of theatrics, spoken word poetry, scatting, jazz, New Orleans Bounce, hip-hop, rock, folk, and gospel—The Bangas had it all.
Poetry flowed effortlessly from her lips, while the band harmonized beautifully with its musicality. It made me put my camera down and just dance along with everyone else. After last night, I might have to take a trip to Nola to “big” with Big Freedia.
Tank and the Bangas were more than a viral moment. The voice behind, “This boy be in my DM, say I’m pretty,” was soul food, the “Chicken Soup for the Soul” type of goodness that nourished my mind, body, and spirit.
I scanned the crowd for an hour and 45 minutes, watching as many faces lit up with joy at hearing “Black Folk” live. Seeing so many Black women raising their hands in harmony warmed my heart as the Saturday morning-like-affirmation lyrics of “This Black Girl” filled the room.
“This black girl don’t speak for all black girls, but if I don’t say it…who will?” *finger snaps, multiple finger snaps*
The night wasn’t just for those with melanin with copper hues; it was for all: the lovers, the fighters, the dreamers, the quirky and shy, those looking for guidance, and those just trying to get away. It was indeed a night to remember.
Even though the world feels tumultuous and uncertain, moments like this night showed that love and light will always reign when the energy is positive, hopeful, and loving. Everything is going to be all right.
Photos & Words by Asha Moné
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